March 2008 Vol. 13 Issue 1

Using pictures from your international trip
Q&A with Steve Cain



It seems that more faculty and staff are able to take advantage of international learning opportunities. Many of you shoot photos for use at work, besides sharing with friends. But when it comes to using them in educational presentations or materials, you are faced with a question about their use.

Question: What are the permission rules about using photos that I shot while on an international project?

Answer: You should follow the same fair use rules that you would in the United States, but to be more certain, remember the following:

  1. Get the photographer’s written permission.
    If you are the photographer, then you already have permission to use the photos. If you are not the photographer, then you must have the photographer’s permission to use the photos. When seeking permission, you could simply e-mail the photographer and describe when, where, and how you will use the photos. Ask the photographer to respond with his or her permission. You can even fax a one-page document to the photographer with a short, but specific description of how you will use the photos. Ask the photographer to look over the description, sign it, and fax it back. When it comes to permission, always make sure to receive it in writing.
  2. Get the written permission of the people in the photos.
    If you (or the photographer) shot the pictures in public places or at public events and you took them with the subject’s knowledge and you are using them for educational purposes, then go ahead. If you trespassed, used spy-like camera techniques or broke any other laws, then don’t use them. If you shot the photos at a private event or on private property, then it would be wise for you to secure written permission from the people who appear in the photos. The best way to get that permission is to use a model release form. A sample model release form can be found on the Communication Survival Guide Web site.

Part of the dilemma in taking photos of people in action is that you may not get the photo you want if you take time to talk about permission or get signatures up front. You can be the judge on that. But you have a responsibility of understanding the culture and specifically the person you are portraying. It is always better to find out how they feel about the use of their photographs. If it is against their beliefs or wishes, then you shouldn’t use the photographs.

I once wanted to take a picture of a woman at a farmers’ market in Uganda, but she ducked behind the counter each time I pointed the camera that way. I spoke with her and all she wanted was $5 for her image. I was going to oblige, but my host guided me to someone he knew at the market who was happy to pose. Not everyone will be that clear about his or her feelings.

Having taken thousands of photographs, I can tell you that shoving a model release that gives me unlimited rights will not work, unless the other person really trusts you. Talk to your international hosts and with the people you are working about taking pictures in certain situations. They can be very helpful — as in the case above. Also, find ways to share your photos. I’ve found that my hosts and others are always fascinated with what I find photo worthy.

Steve Cain, cain@purdue.edu

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